We have dwelt on the lessons of the speech for
Free-trade Unionists elsewhere, and can only find space here to note one other point. In spite of Mr. Chamberlain's bold words and generally aggressive tone, there was underlying the whole speech a note which showed that, in reality, he is now standing on the defensive; that the assault has been driven back; and that such attacks as he now makes partake of the defensive-offensive, and are meant rather to hold his own ground than to carry the position of his enemies. For example, he tells us that he is not sure " that the great issues will not be hastened by a change of scenes, a change of actors, and by putting on a new piece which will not last long, and which would soon be hissed off the stage." That is like the Continental war critics who tell us that Russia will really gain by losing Port Arthur and Vladivostok, and who declare, in Mr. Punch's phrase, that the troops of the Czar are only " luring " the Japanese on when they retreat. If the Liberals and Free-trade Unionists are wise, they will mark this new tendency to stand on the defensive, and will at once take advantage of it by pressing the attack with all the vigour at their commands They should remember the old cavalry order :— "No cutting, give point : were they twenty to one, Men who wait to be charged when we gallop will run."
Previous page
